On 25 November, the French cruise line and world leader in luxury expeditions Ponant invited several journalists and travel agents, with the support of the French Embassy, on board L’Austral for a private visit

This French cruise line perpetuates the great French maritime tradition ; one that offers exceptional destinations on small capacity ships embodying a lifestyle “à la française” : a travel concept that combines intimacy and curiosity, luxury and authenticity.

Ponant’s yachts are small enough to reach ports that are inaccessible to the bigger ships. The company currently has a fleet of 5 ships and travel to all the continents, be it an expedition to the Arctic, a relaxing cruise in the Caribbean or a voyage of discovery to Asia.

According to the Cruise Lines International Association, passenger growth in Asia surged 24 per cent last year. In 2013, there were 1.5 million cruisers in Asia. This number is expected to jump to 8 million in 2020.